I know it’s been forever since I last posted.  I have been so busy, caught up in the whirlwind of summer, that when I finally looked up – it’s starting to be fall outside!  Oh, how time flies!

This morning, the air outside was crisp and cool, and there were even a few trees in the backyard with a hint of fall on the edges of their leaves.  It inspired me to bake something warm and cozy, something to slow down with, enjoy and start getting in the mood for fall. Nothing is quite as cozy as the smell of banana bread baking in the oven.  It’s even better if it’s filled with chocolate chips, and a little on the healthier side.  Here’s how to fill your own home with the smell of yumminess, and the joy of eating it:

Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

2 Cups All-Purpose or White Whole Wheat Flour

2 Teaspoons Baking Powder

2 Teaspoons Baking Soda

1 Teaspoon Cornstarch

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

1 Teaspoon Cinnamon

1/2 Cup Earth Balance Spread

1/2 …

Image from imgfave.com

It didn’t used to be this easy.

I know the changing game has made a lot of good people nervous. But, as a creative, I feel this new business world has been tailor-made with me in mind.

When Melissa asked me to guest post on The Frugal Style – I was elated! First because of the mad love I have for this blog – and second because this season in my life is teaching me great deal about the art of embracing both frugality and wealth.

These days, it’s easier than ever – not only to start your own business, but to do it with little or no start-up money. I’d like to share with you some of my favourite resources for savvy entrepreneurs.

I’ve had an ongoing love affair with the library since I was 15. I can get lost in a pile of books for hours. Nay, days. Since I began building brandyglows, the space where free books grow has taken on new meaning.

Scope out the business section and you can learn the equivalent of an MBA. Or, hone your craft. …

From apnoea

It seems like everyone has been raving about Goody’s Spin Pins.  I finally broke down and bought a pair for my long-ish hair.  Love them!  What a brilliant concept and idea.  I have thick, slightly longer than shoulder length hair and Spins Pins work really well for creating a casual, slightly messy bun (see photos for a how-to).  They come in a dark brown color for dark hair and a light color for blonde hair.

Photo from The Paper Mama

I experienced a slight learning curve with them, but after a couple a tries, I’ve been very pleased with the results.  They retail for around $7 – $8, but I found them for $6.29 on Target’s website.  If you have long hair and you are feeling tired of the pony tail rut, check these out!

Image from dressdesigndecor

Post by Glennen Greer

Meet Stella and Henry.  Stella is one of my good friends from high school, and she is an amazingly great gal.  And she’s Henry’s mom.  I don’t think it gets any better than that, since he’s one of the cutest little guys I’ve ever seen!  I recently asked Stella if she’d be willing to share some of her thoughts on being a new mom, her advice and her own frugal tips.  I know you’ll adore this interview, it’s full of great ideas…not to mention adorable baby pictures!  Seriously, what’s not to love?

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and about being a new mom.

I am a Wisconsin native who has been married about five years to my husband Dave. We met at UW-Madison and stayed here in Madison after we graduated. Prior to becoming a mom, I worked at the UW in research administration for four years. My son Henry was born in August 2010. Now I’m a stay-at-home mom. I love that I get to spend lots of time with Henry. Staying home with him definitely takes a different skill set than my previous job. …